175 years of memorable, horrible, humorous and remarkable events that shaped Chicago

On March 4, 1837, exactly 175 years ago, Chicago was incorporated. Not that Flashback needed a reason, but we took this occasion to compile a very long list of events, year by year and decade by decade, that helped shape this great city.

Some events are admittedly bigger than others, but we think all of them say something interesting about the metropolis. That said, we're also sure we missed some notable happenings. That's where you can help. Submit suggestions to Stephan Benzkofer at chicagoflashback@tribune.com or add them in the comments box. Ideas that check out will be added to the list — with our thanks! Please keep in mind this is a Chicago-specific list, not a Chicagoland celebration. We'll blow those candles out another time.

Editor's note: What did we leave out? We're sure there are significant events we have omitted. Send ideas for our Chicago timeline to Stephan Benzkofer at sbenzkofer@tribune.com. Please keep in mind this is a Chicago-specific list, not a Chicagoland celebration. We'll blow those candles out another time.

Sources: Tribune archives, Encyclopedia of Chicago online; "History of Chicago," by Alfred Theodore Andreas; "The Chicago River: A Natural and Unnatural History," by Libby Hill; Chicago Public Library online and dozens of websites of Chicago institutions.

Indiana Gov. Mike Pence asked lawmakers Tuesday to send him a clarification of the state's new religious-freedom law later this week, while Arkansas legislators passed a similar measure, despite criticism that it is a thinly disguised attempt to permit discrimination against gays.

Two cross-dressing men who were fired upon by National Security Agency police when they disobeyed orders at a heavily guarded gate had just stolen a car from a man who had picked them up and checked into a motel, police said Tuesday.

The upcoming NFL draft is going to offer strong options at the running back position through at least the middle rounds but that isn’t stopping the Chicago Bears from adding some depth at the position.

Arkansas lawmakers have given final approval to a religious-freedom bill that has drawn sharp criticism from opponents who say it opens the door to state-sanctioned discrimination against gays and lesbians.